By California Horse Power Coalition
As part of the 1/ST x Ed Brown Society Internship Program, students from diverse backgrounds are gaining firsthand experience in the Thoroughbred industry while exploring the sport’s rich history, career opportunities, and community. In this Emerging Professionals Q&A, we hear from Florida Atlantic University MBA student Leah Rivers whose journey to Santa Anita Park transformed a curiosity into a genuine passion for horse racing.
Tell us a little about yourself. Where are you from, and what are you currently studying or focused on?
I am born and raised in Connecticut near the city of New Haven. I grew up attending New Haven public schools and ran for New Haven Age Group Track Club for years. I attended St. Francis College in Brooklyn, New York where I obtained my Bachelors in Mass Communication in Digital Media as well as a minor in Entrepreneurship. Currently, I attend Florida Atlantic University achieving my MBA in Sports Management.
How did you first learn about the Ed Brown Society and what made you interested in applying?
I first learned about the Ed Brown Society through my MBA Program Director at Florida Atlantic University. I applied and connected with Shania, the Ed Brown Coordinator. I later met Mr. Williams, the President of the Ed Brown Society, in which I became an Ed Brown fellow. I was interested in applying because of the deep rooted history of African Americans in the equestrian industry. Ed Brown was a prominent black horsemen who won the Belmont Stakes as a jockey and the Kentucky Derby as a trainer. From learning this important history I wanted to be a part of the legacy.
Before this internship, what (if any) exposure did you have to horse racing or the Thoroughbred industry?
Prior to the 1/ST and Ed Brown Society I did not have any exposure to horse racing or Thoroughbred history. I always wanted to go horseback riding for my birthday as a kid and hopefully I do so soon. Also, my father grew up on a tomato field in upstate New York where they owned a few ponies. In the near future I do have interest in owning a horse to ride.
What has your experience been like so far working at Santa Anita Park?
My experience working at Santa Anita Park has been electrifying. The people here are so kind and welcoming and each person that I meet gives me great advice and knowledge that I will take with me for a lifetime. And the view is unbeatable, the mountains in the background really create a picturesque view like something you would see on a post card. I definitely would love to come back and visit Santa Anita Park.
What’s something that has surprised you about the racing industry?
The race industry has surprised me with how niche it is. Most of the people who are in this industry grew up riding or competing with horses, or their families brought them to the track and they learned how to gamble. This internship exposed an entire new world for me where horses are treated with so much care and attention. The behind the scenes work that goes on for race days is impeccable and each department and employee play an important role in making horse racing entertaining and the industry to continue to thrive.
What has been your favorite moment or experience so far?
My favorite moment has to be visiting the stables and meeting the workers and the horses. Witnessing the hard work and labor is sentimental and humbling for me and reminds me that greatness always starts from somewhere and is built. I enjoyed bonding with some horses and feeding them some cookies. There was a particular horse that was a little excited and he could feel that I was a new person. I was told where to touch/comfort him and I tried it myself and it worked. The horse was calm with me and I was able to connect with him, and it was a truly heartfelt moment.
How has this internship changed or shaped your perspective on horse racing?
The internship changed my perspective on just how important horse racing is in terms of its tradition. Horse racing is one of the oldest sports that still thrives today. Horse racing brings together families and different people of all diverse backgrounds. I would like to inform others who look like me to experience this tradition. Horse racing is something that everyone should have access to and be exposed to. Being a part of Santa Anita Park has allowed me to appreciate horse racing. It is now a sport that I enjoy and will encourage my friends and family to be a part of as well.
In your opinion, what makes horse racing unique compared to other sports or industries?
Horse racing is unique because the athlete is the horse and not a human, so the main priority is the horse and after that everything else comes second. However, jockeys, trainers, vets, and etc are all important as well in making sure the horse is healthy, trained, and ready for race day.